Freddie McGregor to receive Key to the City in New York

On June 25 the reggae icon will be honoured in Mount Vernon, NYC

18/06/2017 06:31 PM

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SALUTE TO AN ICON: Freddie McGregor

VETERAN REGGAE hit-maker Freddie McGregor, father of famed dancehall producer Stephen McGregor, will be honoured by the City Of Mount Vernon, New York with the Key to the City for his outstanding contribution to the reggae industry.

The presentation to McGregor will be made on Sunday, June 25 at Roy Wilkins Park in New York. The announcement was recently made by Mount Vernon Mayor Richard Thomas.

"Thanks to Mayor Thomas, I will receive one of the highest honours a person can receive, the Key to the City," McGregor said when he got the news.

The award has added significance given it is from a city in Westchester County, New York, which is home to many residents with strong Jamaican and Caribbean roots.

McGregor explained:

"Mount Vernon is not just where celebrities like actor Denzel Washington and singer Stephanie Mills grew up, but it is a city that Jamaicans have served for years with honour and dignity.

"Jamaican-born Ronald Blackwood who lived in Mount Vernon, became the first African-American who was elected mayor in New York state. Judge Sam D. Walker, who was born in Kingston, served as a City Court Judge in Mount Vernon before he was elevated to Supreme Court judge in New York state.

"Jamaican rapper Heavy D lived in Mount Vernon for many years.

"I feel lucky to be honoured by a city where Jamaicans have broke barriers and shown how immigrants can live the American Dream."

McGregor will head to New York this week where he will join a dazzling galaxy of R&B and reggae stars including R. Kelly, Stephanie Mills, Busy Signal, Tarrus Riley, Ken Boothe, Leroy Sibbles and U Roy at Groovin' In The Park 2017 that takes place at Roy Wilkins Park.

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